5 Showing Off, Gaining Fans

[ Shrek City, Shrek Academy Examination Grounds ]

(A/N: MC starts stronger but this growth does not continue as it was only due to burning his remaining cultivation after reincarnation from his previous life which was half-way to divine realm)

As Xin Qing lined up with the rest of the examinees, there were already some talents that have been found.

"Dai Huabin, Rank 23 White Tiger. Pass."

The students in the line around him already broke out into fervent discussion.

"Dai? White Tiger? Is he..."

"Wah! Brother Dai is so handsome!"

"Tch. Look at him and look at yourself. Unsuited!"

Xin Qing did not pay attention to his surrounding as he chanted a heart sutra. The voices of students around him sunk into the sphere created around as if sinking into water, never to be heard again. He thought this small action of his would be inconsequential but he did not notice the slow rock of a sleeping elder in the distance.

As other names such as Wang Dong or Huang Chutian were called out, he began to realize that Shrek was truly deserving of its title as a top force. Although he was not particularly proficient in understanding the average talent in this world, he knew that many of these students would probably surpass that bar.

His bamboo hat tilted further as he let out a small smile. 'Can it be that I, Peerless Xin, will encounter my first obstacle in this world as a group of kids.' A low chuckle escaped from his lips.

Eventually, he was at the front of the line and taking the test. It was quite simple actually. There was no combat portion as they only had each person record their age and put their hand on a crystal ball which would indicate their spirit rank.

As Xin Qing put his hand on the crystal, he was pleasantly surprised by its bright glow.

"Xin Qing, Rank 28 Truth-Seeking Yang Sword. Pass

The examiner did a double take of him as he did not expect to see this number from such a low-key youth. He pondered, 'This name... this spirit... how have I not heard of either?' Giving a deep look to Xin Qing who only lowered his hat, he could only shake his head internally, 'The world is truly a place of hidden dragons.'

After Xin Qing left the line, discussion broke out behind him.

"Who was that pretty girl? Does any one have their number? I'll pay!"

"Wasn't that a guy?"

"Eh? You think so?"

Removed from this idle chatter, the 'geniuses' which were proudly swaggering before had all turned back to look at Xin Qing. Feeling their glances, he customarily tipped his hat, showing one eye and a small smile, before walking away.

Rocking in the distance, the sleeping elder slowly opened his eyes. There was none of the fogginess of the old in them, only retaining a profound glint in his yellow eyes. He whispered as if to the wind, "Things are going to be quite hectic this year, it seems..."